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Freeway Closes After Payson Man Killed in Accident

Early Friday morning, a man was killed in a vehicle crash involving two trucks. The accident occurred as a small pickup truck was traveling northbound on I-15 around 5:40 a.m. According to an article in The Deseret News, the driver lost control and drove into the median. Utah Highway Patrol Lt. Todd Royce said the pickup careened over the barrier and landed in the southbound lanes where it was broadsided in the middle lane by a trailer. The small pickup truck’s driver, Kevin Miller, died because of his injuries, and the driver of the semitrailer was rushed to the hospital in fair condition.

Lt. Royce said that officers were performing an investigation to discover what caused the crash. He admitted that black ice was a possibility. There had been various traffic accidents due to black ice on Friday Morning. The collision caused the closure of the southbound lanes of I-15 in certain areas of Spanish Fork. The freeway later opened again around 9:30 a.m. Our deepest sympathies go out to the family of this Payson man. We hope the driver of the semitrailer is also able to make a full recovery.

Black ice is an unfortunate phenomenon in Utah. From time to time, in Utah, conditions are just right to cause the formation of black ice. Black ice is one of the most dangerous hazards that can face drivers on the road. Black ice is a transparent sheet of ice that is difficult for drivers to see. The ice is so dangerous precisely because it is challenging to detect in advance. It is typically found on roads and other paved surfaces. Black ice forms when low ground temperatures cause the precipitation to freeze upon impact with the ground. It can also develop when melting snow refreezes on a surface.

According to the Wikihow, there isn’t a foolproof method to avoid black ice; however, you can keep yourself safe by driving slow and knowing where to expect black ice. Black ice typically forms at night and early in the morning, when the temperatures drop. It develops on roads that don’t see a lot of sun and are usually less traveled (although it can form on freeways). Black ice often builds up on bridges and overpasses and the roads underneath. If you are more familiar with your drive (say on your way to work), look for places where black ice could feasibly form.

You can also keep yourself safe by driving slowly. This tip cannot be overstated. Driving slow when the weather is bad is one of the best preventative measures you can take. You should also avoid making any sudden changes in speed. This suggestion applies to both speeding up and slowing down. You don’t want to suddenly start driving too fast because it increases your chances of sliding. The same applies to slowing down. If you slam on your brakes, your likelihood of sliding is heightened.

As always, if you are involved in an accident, contact The Advocates Law Firm. We can help you know what to do after a crash. We will represent your interests and protect your rights.